Sarokeys BCP vs. KTT Vanilla Ice Cream
An in-depth look at the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Sarokeys BCP and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Sarokeys BCP is renowned for its streamlined rendition of the Black Cherry Pies, providing a creamy and bouncy typing experience with a signature poppy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switch stands out for its smooth and creamy feel, thanks to the use of POK material in both the stem and bottom housing. Additionally, it delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature that sets it apart from the competition. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
51g
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary KTT blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POK
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single-staged 20mm lengthened spring
Spring
Stainless steel 18mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Sarokeys BCP and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The BCP utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deep and full sound when typing, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switches feature a proprietary KTT blend top housing that offers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature. While both materials result in a unique typing experience, the nylon top housing of the BCP creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound of the KTT blend top housing in the Vanilla Ice Cream switches.
In terms of the bottom housing, the BCP and Vanilla Ice Cream switches continue to showcase their differences in material. The BCP features a nylon bottom housing that complements its nylon top housing in producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switches use a POK bottom housing, which is highly durable and smooth, contributing to the overall clacky and durable nature of the switches. This difference in bottom housing material not only affects the durability of the switches but also plays a role in the sound and feel when bottoming out keys.
While the Sarokeys BCP and KTT Vanilla Ice Cream switches may have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, they both offer unique typing experiences. The combination of nylon top and bottom housing in the BCP provides a consistent and deeper sound profile, while the proprietary KTT blend top housing and POK bottom housing in the Vanilla Ice Cream switches create a distinctive high-pitched and clacky sound with exceptional durability. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing experience tailored to the preferences of users seeking specific sound profiles and durability levels.
Weight
When comparing the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, one noticeable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The BCP has a higher actuation force of 51 grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, categorizing it as a light switch. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch would provide a lighter typing experience compared to the BCP switch. The difference in weight can impact how long one can type comfortably without fatigue, with lighter switches being preferred for longer typing sessions. However, some may prefer the heavier actuation force of the BCP switch for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The Sarokeys BCP linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Vanilla Ice Cream switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the BCP switch. The BCP switch may provide a slightly quicker and more responsive feel due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Vanilla Ice Cream switch's longer travel distance may offer a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance sensation, with the BCP switch being shorter and the Vanilla Ice Cream switch being longer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys BCP has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the BCP for $4.85.
The KTT Vanilla Ice Cream has an MSRP of $5.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vanilla Ice Cream for $4.60.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch offers a signature poppy and clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch delivers a high-pitched and clacky sound signature, thanks to the POK material used in both the stem and bottom housing. The BCP is more focused on the clacky aspect, while the Vanilla Ice Cream aims for a cleaner and resonant high-pitched sound. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, so the choice between them ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Sarokeys BCP linear switch is known for its creamy type feel, characterized by a bouncy and elastic feedback sensation. Conversely, the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch provides a remarkably smooth and creamy typing experience, giving a buttery and uniform keystroke sensation. Both switches offer a luxurious and pleasant feel while typing, with the BCP leaning towards a bouncy and elastic touch, and the Vanilla Ice Cream focusing on a smooth and fluid keystroke. Again, personal preference will dictate which feel is preferred by the user.
Overall, both the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences. The BCP excels in providing a clacky sound profile and a bouncy and elastic feel, while the Vanilla Ice Cream stands out with its high-pitched and resonant sound and buttery smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer a more clacky and bouncy typing experience or a smoother and creamier feel. Regardless of the choice made, both switches guarantee a premium typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Sarokeys BCP linear switch and the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams and a bouncy, creamy typing experience with a clacky sound profile, then the Sarokeys BCP may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 48 grams and a smooth, buttery typing feel with a high-pitched, marbly, and resonant sound profile, then the KTT Vanilla Ice Cream might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and priorities.
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